Crime Scene Processing Flashcards
7 cards from real ETC practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Crime Scene Processing flashcards as text
Which of the following best describes the 'zone search' method at a crime scene?
Answer: Dividing the scene into sectors and assigning each to a different searcher
The zone search divides the scene into sectors assigned to individual searchers, reducing missed areas and overlapping coverage.
When collecting a wet biological stain from fabric, the correct initial packaging is:
Answer: Paper bag after air-drying the item
Wet biological evidence must be air-dried before packaging in paper to prevent mold growth and DNA degradation.
A technician discovers latent prints on a firearm. What is the recommended sequence before processing?
Answer: Render safe, photograph, swab for DNA, then process for prints
Firearms must be rendered safe first for officer safety, then documented, with DNA swabbing done before print processing to avoid cross-contamination.
The primary purpose of using an alternate light source (ALS) at a crime scene is to:
Answer: Visualize trace evidence and biological stains not visible to the naked eye
ALS causes certain substances—such as body fluids, fibers, and latent prints—to fluoresce, making otherwise invisible evidence detectable.
Which documentation method provides the most accurate spatial data for reconstructing a crime scene?
Answer: Total station or 3D laser scanning
Total stations and 3D laser scanners capture precise x, y, z coordinates of all scene elements, enabling accurate reconstruction.
An evidence technician notes a strong smell of accelerant at a fire scene. The first step should be to:
Answer: Notify the fire investigator and ensure scene safety before collecting samples
Scene safety must be confirmed and the appropriate specialist notified before evidence collection begins at a fire scene.
When documenting a bloodstain pattern, a technician should record which of the following in addition to photographs?
Answer: Location, size, shape, distribution, and measurements relative to fixed reference points
Complete bloodstain documentation includes location, dimensions, shape, pattern type, and precise measurements tied to fixed reference points for reconstruction.